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Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Triarc and Wendy’s Complete Merger Transaction

BUSINESS WIRE)--Triarc Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRY; TRY.B), the parent company of Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc., which is the franchisor of the Arby’s® restaurant system, and Wendy's International, Inc. (NYSE: WEN), announced September 29, 2008. that they have completed their merger transaction. Effective immediately, the combined company will be named Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc.

Roland C. Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, said: “I am delighted to announce the completion of this merger, which creates a world-class company with the strength, scale and expertise necessary to thrive in a competitive restaurant environment. As one company, we are well-positioned to deliver long-term value to our stockholders through enhanced operational efficiencies, improved product offerings, shared services and strong human capital. We have worked together diligently to close this transaction over the past several months, and will push forward with that same intensity.”

Under the merger agreement, Wendy’s shareholders received 4.25 shares of Triarc’s Class A common stock for each common share of Wendy’s. In addition, each outstanding share of Triarc Class B common stock, Series 1, was converted into one share of Triarc Class A common stock, resulting in a post-merger company with a single class of common stock. Commencing on Tuesday, September 30, 2008, the combined company will trade under the symbol “WEN” on the New York Stock Exchange. In addition, the company will unveil a new corporate web site at www.wendysarbys.com concurrently with the opening of the stock market on that date.

Also effective today, the Company's Board of Directors was expanded from 11 to 12 members. As previously announced, Russell V. Umphenour, Jr. has resigned and two former Wendy’s directors, Janet Hill and J. Randolph Lewis, have been appointed to the Board of Directors. Additionally, Roland C. Smith has assumed the position of President and Chief Executive Officer of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group and Chief Executive Officer of Wendy’s, Thomas A. Garrett has assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Arby’s, Michael I. Lippert has assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer of Arby’s, J. David Karam has assumed the position of President of Wendy’s, Stephen D. Farrar has assumed the position of Chief Operating Officer of Wendy’s and Kenneth C. Calwell has assumed the position of Chief Marketing Officer of Wendy’s.

Nelson Peltz, non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, said: "Our Board is very pleased to welcome Janet Hill and Randy Lewis and we look forward to working with them as we build our new restaurant company. We would also like to thank Russ Umphenour for his valuable contributions to the Triarc Board over the years. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

Wendy’s/Arby’s Group plans to hold a conference call for analysts and investors in early November to discuss third quarter financial results, as well as to provide an update on the progress of the combined company's merger integration activities.

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Monday, September 29, 2008

Manheim Named One of Top 50 'Best Employers For Workers Over 50' By AARP

PRNewswire/ -- Manheim's reputation as a great place to work has been recognized by one of the nation's most recognized member organizations. AARP has ranked Manheim 36th in its 2008 "Best Employers for Workers Over 50 list," which will be featured in AARP The Magazine's November/December issue.

Manheim earned high marks in the categories of recruiting, which includes the types of employment Manheim offers and its methods and efforts to attract new candidates; continued workplace opportunities, which includes how Manheim provides new experiences for employees in the workplace and opportunities for continued career development; and organization statistics, which includes the age composition of Manheim's workforce.

"Manheim is honored to be included on this list with other great companies across the nation, and we're proud that our workers feel that our company offers opportunities for growth and career development for those over 50," said Lilicia Bailey, Manheim chief people officer. "Approximately one-half of our employees are over the age of 50, and their commitment and dedication help make us a respected leader in the vehicle remarketing industry."

Manheim joins a broad group of employers in the top 50 that includes Cornell University, Scripps Health, S. C. Johnson and Son, Inc., and the National Institutes of Health. The complete list can be found online at www.aarpthemagazine.org .

Employers applied for the Best Employers honor by submitting an application outlining their exemplary policies and practices related to workers over 50. Candidates were reviewed to ensure that practices met the needs of older workers. Key areas of consideration include: recruiting practices; opportunities for training, education and career development; workplace accommodations; alternative work options, such as flexible scheduling, job sharing and phased retirement; employee health and pension benefits; retiree work opportunities; and training and development.

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Thursday, September 25, 2008

Cole Haan Celebrates 80th Anniversary October 2nd

Luxury Footwear Brand Cole Haan Celebrates 80th Anniversary with
Special Sale Event & Cocktail Party on Thursday, October 2 in Atlanta, Georgia

Showcasing Limited-Edition Signature Jewelry Collection in Collaboration with
Acclaimed Designer Anna Sheffield

Anna Sheffield and Cole Haan CEO Jim Seuss in Attendance
Cocktails & Hors d'oeuvres

In celebration of its 80th Anniversary, Cole Haan, the premier luxury lifestyle brand offering men’s and women’s footwear, accessories and outerwear, is hosting a special sale event and meet greet with acclaimed jewelry designer Anna Sheffield and Cole Haan CEO Jim Seuss on Thursday, October 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at its Phipps Plaza store in Atlanta, Ga. Guests are invited to enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres as they take advantage of a 20% discount off of all Cole Haan merchandise.

Cole Haan recently debuted its commemorative Fall 2008 collection of men’s and women’s footwear, handbags, and jewelry for its 80th Anniversary. The series of new collections and products feature a fashion-forward “reimagined” approach to classic American style that draw heavily on the brand’s strong heritage and rich history.

In further recognition of the brand’s 80th Anniversary celebration, Cole Haan has collaborated with admired jewelry designer Anna Sheffield - the first collaboration in a series of artisan partners. The designer fashion jewelry collection by Sheffield takes its lead from the designer’s signature penny keepsakes - created to adorn Cole Haan’s anniversary penny loafer collection. Including an assortment of charm bracelets and necklaces, earrings and cufflinks, the collection draws its inspiration from classic Cole Haan themes that include the brand’s iconic weave design, Art Deco detailing and 1920’s liberty coins. The jewelry is fashioned utilizing metals that include sterling silver, espresso gold vermeil and offers distinctive pieces offset by cognac diamond detailing. Anna Sheffield’s designs will debut in Cole Haan stores and specialty retailers in Fall 2008.

What:
80th Anniversary Cole Haan Special Sale Event
Meet & Greet with Designer Anna Sheffield and Cole Haan CEO Jim Seuss
20% Off All Merchandise
Cocktails and Hors d'oeuvres

Who:
Designer Anna Sheffield & Cole Haan CEO Jim Seuss

When:
Thursday, October 2 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Where:
Cole Haan
Phipps Plaza
3500 Peachtree Rd, N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30326
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Peleman Industries Included in Inc. Magazine's Top 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies

Inc. Magazine today named Peleman Industries Inc. www.peleman.com in its annual ranking of the 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies in the U.S. Ranked at number 3556, Peleman Industries was listed as one of the nation’s top independent-minded entrepreneurial companies. Inc. 5000 companies represent the backbone of the U.S. economy, with an aggregate revenue of $185 billion dollars, median three-year growth of 147%, and creation of more than 826,033 jobs.

Peleman Industries was awarded the Inc. 5000 because of its rapid growth as a privately-held manufacturer of the Unibind line of award-winning binding, laminating and presentation products. Based in Alpharetta, Georgia, Peleman Industries opened in 1999, growing from a two-person operation to over 60 employees occupying 52,000 square feet of office space. Peleman Industries has established partnerships with key industry players, such as Kodak, Fuji, Office Max, Apple, and others.

Peleman Awards

In addition to the Inc. 5000, Peleman Industries has won numerous other awards, including the Stevie Award, Creative Home Arts Club Seal of Approval, Binding Industries Association Award, DIMA Innovations Award, American Photo Editor’s Choice, and other awards.

Peleman Identified New Consumer Oriented Trends

In 2005, Peleman Industries identified a new trend in the market – photo books for consumers. Targeting this new market was a big change for the company, which traditionally had a B-to-B focus. The addition of the consumer oriented Unibind PhotoBook Creator to Peleman’s product line transformed the company into a more diversified business by giving it a retail presence. Today, PhotoBook Creator is available in retail and office supply chains nationwide, as well as in six continents and more than 100 countries.

About Inc. 5000

The 2008 Inc. 5000 measured companies’ revenue growth from 2004 through 2007. To qualify, companies must have been U.S.-based privately-held with $200,000 in revenue in 2004 and $2 million in 2007. “Our second annual Inc. 5000 continues the most ambitious project in business journalism,” said Inc. 5000 Project Manager, Jim Melloan. “The Inc. 5000 gives an unrivalled portrait of young, underreported companies across all industries doing fascinating things with cutting-edge business models, as well as older companies that are still showing impressive growth.”

For complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles, see www.inc5000.com.

About Peleman Industries

Founded in 1939, Peleman Industries Inc is a privately held manufacturer of Unibind-branded binding, laminating and presentation products. With its worldwide headquarters in Puurs, Belgium, the company opened its U.S. operations in Alpharetta, GA. in 1999. Today, Unibind products are distributed on six continents in more than 100 countries. For more information, visit www.peleman.com or www.unibind.com.

About Inc.com

Inc.com, the daily resource for entrepreneurs, delivers how-to guides, advice, tools, breaking news, and rich multi-media to help business owners and CEOs start, run, and grow their businesses. Inc.com offers dynamic marketing solutions to help advertisers effectively reach Inc.com’s audience of business leaders. Visit http://www.inc.com.
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Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Third Annual Southeast Venture Conference Set for March 11-12th in Atlanta

PRNewswire/ -- The third annual Southeast Venture Conference (SEVC) is set for March 11-12th, 2009 at the Intercontinental Buckhead Hotel in Atlanta.

The SEVC is the opportunity for private equity investors to network with the most promising emerging growth companies in the southeast region and for pioneering entrepreneurs to make the connections that empower their companies to become tomorrow's business leaders.

The Southeast Venture Conference agenda will feature approximately 40 of the region's top private technology firms, a number of high profile speakers and exclusive panels geared to a national audience of venture capitalists, private equity investors, and executive entrepreneurs.

The SEVC has featured over 80 of the most dynamic technology and business speakers including names like craigslist founder Craig Newmark, Virginia's Governor and Nextel founder Mark Warner, former Apple CEO John Sculley, SAS CEO Dr. Jim Goodnight and Salesforce.com president Jim Steele to name a few.

Presenting companies will range from early stage firms seeking their first institutional round to later stage pre-IPO firms seeking expansion capital based in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington DC.

The sold-out 2007 and 2008 SEVCs held in Research Triangle Park, NC and Tysons Corner, VA respectively -- featured over $80 billion in private equity investment capital in attendance.

"Thanks in large part to the diversity of technology innovation in the region, the Southeast United States now represents the world's 5th largest economy," said SEVC Executive Director Eric Gregg. "The SEVC brings the top emerging technologies from the Southeast together with the nation's top investors helping to fuel the region's continued growth across a number of industries."

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Machinists Union to Protest Merger at Northwest/Delta Shareholder Meetings

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) will demonstrate in opposition to the proposed Northwest Airlines/Delta Air Lines merger at shareholder meetings in New York and Atlanta.

Northwest Airlines Shareholder Meeting Protest
September 25, 2008
8:30 am-11:30 am
AXA Equitable Center Auditorium
787 Seventh Ave, New York, NY 10019

-and-

Delta Air Lines Shareholder Meeting Protest
September 25, 2008
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
2000 Convention Center Concourse
College Park, GA 30337


"This merger would eliminate jobs, reduce service and create a single mega-carrier that could lead to the combined entity's bankruptcy," said IAM Transportation Vice President Robert Roach, Jr.

The Machinists Union is the largest airline union in North America. The IAM represents 12,500 Northwest Airlines Ramp Service, Customer Service, Reservation, Stockroom, Office & Clerical, Flight Simulate Technician and Plant Protection employees. More information about the machinists Union and the proposed Northwest/Delta merger is available at www.goiam.org/mergers.

New York Event Contact: Joseph Tiberi, IAMAW
202-974-8250 (office)
301-529-9341 (cell)
Georgia Event Contact: Gary Mobley, IAMAW
404-208-8807 (office)
612-432-6067 (cell)

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U.S. Hotels to Bottom Out in 2009

PRNewswire/ -- A new study released today by PKF Hospitality Research (PKF-HR) reveals that demand for U.S. hotel rooms will contract for the next two years. Compounding the negative impact of declining demand is a projected concurrent increase in supply. PKF-HR is forecasting a combined net increase in 2008 and 2009 of nearly 275,000 new hotel rooms compared to year-end 2007. This represents a 6.2 percent jump in accommodations over this two-year period.

With supply and demand levels moving in opposite directions, occupancy rates are projected to decline in both 2008 and 2009. Considering the 0.3 percent occupancy decline reported by Smith Travel Research in 2007, the result is three consecutive years of fewer accommodated roomnights for the average U.S. hotel.

These findings are based on the recently released third quarter 2008 edition of Hotel Horizons(SM), PKF-HR's quarterly forecast report for six U.S. chain-scales and 50 major markets. The forecast was released at The Lodging Conference 2008 in Phoenix this morning.

"Because of the extended slowdown of the U.S. economy, compounded by the negative consequences stemming from airline capacity cutbacks, we are now forecasting a 0.2 percent decline in lodging demand in 2008, followed by another loss of 1.1 percent in 2009," said Mark Woodworth, president of PKF Hospitality Research. "According to data from Smith Travel Research, this is the first time since 1988 that the U.S. lodging industry will experience two consecutive years of decline in lodging demand."

Slow ADR

Through the first half of 2008, the one saving measure for hotel owners and operators was the ability to maintain rate integrity. Despite a 2.5 percent decline in occupancy during the first six months of the year, managers were able to raise their average daily room rates (ADR) by 4.2 percent. Persistent yield management plus contractual rate agreements helped to buoy room rate levels.

"With supply and demand moving in opposite directions, the typical hotel manager will not be able to maintain their aggressive approach to raising room rates," Woodworth commented. "Accordingly, we are forecasting ADR growth for the entirety of 2008 to be 3.6 percent, followed by a minimal 1.3 percent gain in 2009." Looking forward, PKF-HR does not foresee ADR growth to exceed the pace of inflation until 2012, according to Woodworth.

Declining occupancy, plus slow ADR growth, combines for a dismal near-term outlook for revenue increases. PKF-HR projects RevPAR to increase a mere 0.8 percent in 2008, followed by a 3.2 percent decline in 2009. Given the strong contribution of rooms revenue, PKF-HR is forecasting total hotel revenues to remain virtually flat in 2008 (0.2 percent increase) and then decline in 2009 (negative 2.5 percent).

Expense Controls

"Historically, U.S. hotel managers have answered reductions in revenue with more vigilant cost containment. Fewer rooms occupied do lessen the need for staffing, plus inspire management to find expense reductions throughout the operation. Unfortunately, less controllable costs, such as utilities, property taxes and insurance, are on the rise," Woodworth noted.

PKF-HR believes that average operating expenditures will drop 1.0 percent in 2008, thus allowing unit-level net operating income (NOI) to increase 3.1 percent. However, the forecasted 2.5 percent decline in revenue for 2009 will be too much to overcome. Despite another 2.3 percent reduction in operating costs, the average U.S. hotel is projected to suffer a 3.0 percent decline in NOI during 2009. For the purposes of this analysis, NOI is defined as income before deductions for capital reserve, rent, interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization.

"Fortunately, the U.S. lodging industry was in good financial shape entering the current trough in the business cycle. Unlike other forms of real estate, lodging was not experiencing any material amounts of foreclosures," Woodworth said. "A sample of 1,500 hotels that participated in our annual Trends in the Hotel Industry survey generated sufficient cash from their operations to cover their reported interest payment by a ratio of 1.86. This implies that most U.S. hotels can withstand a fairly substantial decline in NOI and still have the ability to meet their debt service obligations."

On The Horizon

"The current credit crisis may be unfairly punishing developers with sound market and financially justified projects. However, the lodging industry will eventually benefit from the near-term development difficulties," Woodworth noted. "PKF-HR believes the existing restrictive financing environment will linger into 2009, thus delaying or preventing the start of hotel projects currently in the pipeline. Given the 12 to 24 month time needed to construct most hotels, PKF-HR projects a window of one to two years when the amount of hotel openings will be very limited. The pace of new supply growth is forecast to drop to 1.4 and 1.8 percent, respectively, in 2010 and 2011.

"By 2010, we will start to see a reversal of current trends. While the pace of supply growth will be waning, we will start to see a return in the demand for lodging accommodations," Woodworth said. PKF-HR is forecasting a 2.2 percent increase in demand for 2010, followed by another 3.1 percent gain in 2011. With growth in demand exceeding supply, national occupancy levels will begin to rise again in 2010 and continue to increase through 2012.

Despite the forecast of growth in occupancy from 2010 through 2012, the outlook for increases in ADR is somewhat constrained. "As we have observed during the initial years of historical periods of recovery, occupancy gains precede ADR growth. Given the depth of the projected lodging industry slowdown in 2009, the newly built competitive properties added to most markets, and forecasts of below average CPI growth, we are forecasting average daily room rates to increase at a compound average annual rate of 2.7 percent, just equal to the long-term rate of growth for ADR," said Woodworth.

A Trough In 2009

"Seven years since the terrorist acts of 2001 -- the primary event that led to the last low point in the U.S. lodging performance -- a new, but familiar, set of circumstances is propelling the industry towards the next trough. Capital market turmoil is undermining asset values, a situation last seen in the late 1980's and early 1990's. The projected industry slowdown won't be as deep as the ones observed in 1981 or 1991, but it may take a little longer to fully recover," Woodworth concluded.

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Newell Rubbermaid Opens Global Headquarters, Announces Expansion

Governor Sonny Perdue and Mark Ketchum, president and CEO of Newell Rubbermaid, Inc., announced today that the company will add up to 200 new jobs in its latest Georgia expansion. The announcement came today during ribbon-cutting ceremonies for Newell Rubbermaid’s new global headquarters building in Sandy Springs, Ga.

“I am honored to help welcome Newell Rubbermaid employees to their new offices,” said Governor Perdue. “We are proud this great company has found continued success by putting down deeper roots in Georgia.”

The Fortune 500 company will welcome its Baby and Parenting Essentials global business unit, comprised of the Graco, Aprica and Teutonia brands, to the building in summer 2009, bringing up to 200 jobs to Georgia – the majority of which will be filled locally.

As previously announced, Newell Rubbermaid also will open a new 800,000-square-foot Southeast distribution center in Union City later this year, ultimately employing a workforce of 300 – 200 of which will be new jobs added to the Georgia economy.

Newell Rubbermaid moved its worldwide headquarters to Atlanta in 2003. Its Georgia workforce will have grown from 200 people in 2003 to approximately 1,000 employees by the end of 2009.

“The State of Georgia and metro Atlanta have been extremely welcoming to Newell Rubbermaid. In addition to being an international hub, metro Atlanta is home to exceptional talent from a variety of backgrounds, which will help ensure that our employee population ultimately reflects the diversity of our consumer population,” said Newell Rubbermaid President and CEO Mark Ketchum. “This building symbolizes so many of the intangibles that are critical to our future success: the opportunity to build one culture, bring our values to life, and declare to the world who we are and what we are about.”

Newell Rubbermaid’s 350,000-square-foot, 14-story global headquarters building is located at Three Glenlake Parkway in the Perimeter Center area of Atlanta. The building was developed by Greenstone Properties in partnership with Pope & Land and Granite Properties. Architects were Pickard Chilton and Wakefield Beasley. Employees from three separate Atlanta sites are united in the new headquarters, which includes a training facility, fitness center, cafĂ©, company store and other worker-friendly amenities. The company has the option to expand further and construct a second building on the site.

Partnering with Newell Rubbermaid on its expansion were the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Development Authority of Fulton County and City of Sandy Springs

About the Company
Newell Rubbermaid Inc, an S&P 500 company, is a global marketer of consumer and commercial products with sales of over $6 billion and a strong portfolio of brands, including Rubbermaid®, Sharpie®, Graco®, Calphalon®, Irwin®, Lenox®, Levolor®, Paper Mate®, Dymo®, Waterman®, Parker®, Goody®, BernzOmatic®,and Amerock®. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., and has approximately 22,500 employees worldwide.
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Hunter Hotels Promotes Mayank Patel to Senior Analyst

Hunter Hotels, a leading national hotel brokerage and investment services firm, today announced the promotion of Mayank Patel to senior analyst.

In his new role, he will head up a team of analysts responsible for the research and preparation of property evaluations, hotel marketing packages and broker opinions of value. He also will conduct financial and industry analysis, examine valuation methods, and prepare offering memoranda for prospective buyers.

“Our firm has enjoyed substantial growth over the past five years, in part thanks to the thoughtful analysis and evaluation provided by Mayank and his team,” said Bob Hunter, president of Hunter Hotels. “He brings a full range of understanding of hotels from development to operations, as well as in-depth expertise on valuation and finance. With rock-solid analysis and valuation, we believe we are able to help clients achieve the optimum pricing for their properties in all phases of the hotel real estate cycle.”

A 10-plus year hotel veteran, Patel has been involved in valuation and analysis, operations and development throughout his career, which includes stints at hotel corporations and real estate investment trusts. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of North Carolina.

Hunter Hotels, founded in 1978, has offices in Atlanta and Washington, D.C. Hunter’s exclusive focus is in hotel brokerage and hotel-related investment banking. Properties range from upper upscale to economy with an emphasis on premium-branded and quality independent hotels in the mid-market segment. For more information or to view current listings, please visit www.hunterhotels.net or contact us at 770-691-0300 in Atlanta, or 703-246-0035 in Washington, D.C.
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Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Finnish Water and Fiber Company Consolidates in Atlanta

Finnish water and fiber management company Kemira announced today it plans to consolidate its North American research and development facilities into a new Atlanta location, creating 85 jobs.

“Georgia has the right environment for companies like Kemira to do the research they need to stay on the cutting edge,” said Ken Stewart, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “Our educated workforce and array of top-notch research institutions make locating here a natural fit.”

Kemira, which currently has six locations in Georgia and more than 100 worldwide, recently signed a lease to occupy space at Technology Enterprise Park in Atlanta. The facility will house research and development professionals focused on enhancing development and commercialization of innovative technologies and products for the pulp and paper, water treatment and oil and mining industries. The new R&D center will be one of five globally for Kemira and the only R&D location in North America.

“Kemira has a strong commitment to the customer segments we serve in North America, said Hannu Melarti, Kemira Region Head. “The introduction of this R&D center in Atlanta further strengthens our partnerships with customers in North America, while also allowing our highly skilled R&D team to contribute to our customer needs globally.”

The Atlanta Development Authority, the economic development arm of the City of Atlanta, laid the groundwork for this and other R&D-related deals though its financing of Technology Enterprise Park in 2006. Through financial incentives and tax-credit financing opportunities, ADA has helped fill the remaining vacant space in TEP building 1, a milestone in the development of the park.

“ADA welcomes Kemira to the City of Atlanta and congratulates them on their lease at Technology Enterprise Park as they join Atlanta’s growing cluster of research and development businesses,” said Gregg Simon, Manager of Business Engagement at ADA. “Kemira’s move to TEP validates the investment in promoting research and development within the city.”

Through its affiliation with Georgia Tech, Technology Enterprise Park offers access to immense developmental resources, capabilities and talent. Facilities and experts in fields ranging from bioengineering to nanotechnology are engaged in active partnerships with Technology Enterprise Park firms. Through Georgia Tech, the relationships extend to other leading universities and research hospitals of Atlanta.

Courtney Noce, project manager with GDEcD and Kemira’s representatives from Jones Lang LaSalle worked together to assist Kemira in its location.
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Monday, September 22, 2008

CryoLife Expands Distribution of Hemostase MPH(R) to Canada through Sorin Group Canada, Inc.

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- CryoLife, Inc. (NYSE:CRY) , a biomaterials, medical device and tissue processing company, announced today that it has begun distribution in Canada, through Sorin Group Canada, Inc., of Hemostase MPH to control bleeding in general, cardiac and vascular surgery.

CryoLife began distributing Hemostase MPH in the U. S., the United Kingdom and Germany in the second quarter of 2008. Distribution will continue to expand to additional markets later in 2008 and in 2009.

Hemostase MPH is developed using Microporous Polysaccharide Hemospheres technology (MPH(R)), which produces a plant-based powder that rapidly dehydrates blood, and enhances clotting on contact. The Hemostase MPH product received Health Canada approval in 2002, CE Mark approval in 2003, and FDA pre-market approval in 2006.

Available in a convenient ready-to-use applicator, Hemostase MPH, unlike many hemostatic agents, does not require additional operating room preparation or special storage conditions. In addition, pre-clinical studies have shown that Hemostase MPH does not promote infection and absorbs within 24-48 hours of application at the wound site, compared to other surgical hemostats which can take 3-8 weeks or more to fully break down.

"Hemostase MPH is complementary to our BioGlue(R) surgical adhesive products. It provides surgeons with the ability to quickly and confidently control active bleeding during surgery," stated Steven G. Anderson, president and chief executive officer. "We are pleased to be able to offer this product in Canada through the Sorin Group."

About CryoLife, Inc.

Founded in 1984, CryoLife, Inc. is a leader in the processing and distribution of implantable living human tissues for use in cardiac and vascular surgeries throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Company recently received FDA clearance for the CryoValve(R) SG pulmonary human heart valve, processed using CryoLife's proprietary SynerGraft(R) Technology. The Company's BioGlue(R) Surgical Adhesive is FDA approved as an adjunct to sutures and staples for use in adult patients in open surgical repair of large vessels. BioGlue is also CE marked in the European Community and approved in Canada and Australia for use in soft tissue repair. CryoLife distributes Hemostase MPH(R), a hemostatic agent, in much of the U.S. for use in cardiac and vascular surgery and in the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Canada for cardiac, vascular, and general surgery, subject to certain exclusions. The Company also distributes the CryoLife-O'Brien(R) Stentless Porcine Aortic Bioprosthesis, which is CE marked for distribution within the European Community.

Statements made in this press release that look forward in time or that express management's beliefs, expectations or hopes are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include those regarding the ability of the Company to begin distributing the Hemostase MPH product when expected and the anticipated benefits of Hemostase MPH. These future events may not occur as and when expected, if at all, and, together with the Company's business, are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include that the Company may be unable to effectively leverage its existing sales force to sell Hemostase MPH, that surgeons may not choose to utilize Hemostase MPH, that Hemostase MPH may not perform in accordance with preliminary tests and results and that other distributors of the product may impede the Company's ability to sell to new or existing customers. These risks and uncertainties also include the risk factors detailed in CryoLife's Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including CryoLife's Form 10-K filing for the year ended December 31, 2007 and the Company's other SEC filings. The Company does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements.


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World Airways Operates MD-11 Freighter for Allied Air

PRNewswire -- World Airways has signed a two-year contract with Allied Air to operate one MD-11F on a full-time basis for service between Belgium and Nigeria. World Airways will begin operating the aircraft for Allied Air on Oct. 1, 2008, flying from Ostend to Lagos, and continuing onto Nairobi, Kenya to uplift perishables, returning to Ostend three to four times a week.

Allied Air is a Nigerian-based airline that operates four Boeing 727 freighters and works closely in conjunction with its worldwide sales agent, ANA Aviation Services, to provide scheduled flights and ad hoc charter services.

"ANA Aviation Services is a specialist airline management provider that designs and delivers innovative airline solutions to customers around the globe," said Jeff Sanborn, chief marketing officer for Global Aero Logistics Inc. "World Airways has the international expertise and a widebody cargo fleet that meets the needs of Allied Air and its business partner, ANA Aviation Services."

World Airways, a subsidiary of Global Aero Logistics Inc., is a U.S.-certificated air carrier providing customized transportation services for major international passenger and cargo carriers, international freight forwarders, the United States military and international leisure tour operators. Founded in 1948, World Airways operates a fleet of wide-body aircraft to meet the specialized needs of its customers.

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Friday, September 19, 2008

National Society of Hispanic MBAs to Honor Brillante Award Recipients During Hispanic Heritage Month

PRNewswire -- As the National Hispanic Heritage Month begins, the National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2008 Brillante Awards for Excellence. The Brillante Award for Excellence is the most prestigious honor presented to the Hispanic community's most outstanding leaders and corporations whose work and contributions reflect NSHMBA's mission to foster Hispanic leadership through graduate management education and professional development in order to improve society. Six recipients will be recognized at the Brillante Awards Gala, hosted by Deloitte, during the NSHMBA 2008 Conference and Career Expo on October 11th in Atlanta, GA.

This year, nominations are for three outstanding individuals and three leading organizations. Individual honorees for 2008 include Rudy Beserra, VP Latin Affairs, The Coca-Cola Company, recognized for Corporate Executive Excellence; Loida Rosario, DePaul University, recognized for Member Service Excellence; and Tillie Hidalgo Lima, President/CEO, of Best Upon Request Corporate, Inc. for Entrepreneur Excellence Award. The awards recognizing organizations this year are bestowed upon American Express for Corporate Excellence, Florida International University for Educational Excellence, and the National Hispanic Business Association for Not-For-Profit Excellence.

"The individuals and organizations awarded the Brillante Award for Excellence are truly dedicated and determined to make a significant impact in the business world and the Hispanic community," states Lourdes Hassler, NSHMBA CEO. "They are true role models to our nation and an inspiration to our Hispanic community."

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Thursday, September 18, 2008

City of Atlanta Provides Amnesty Program for Business Tax and Unpaid Parking Tickets

Vehicle owners with unpaid parking tickets and unregistered businesses got a reprieve Monday after the Atlanta City Council approved the administration’s proposal to grant an amnesty period for outstanding late fees, penalties and interest lodged after violators.

According to the City Treasury Department, Atlanta is owed between $10 and $15 million for unpaid parking tickets and unregistered businesses.

Failure to register a business doing business in the City of Atlanta or to abide by the parking regulations of the city within city limits may result in the violator being assessed a fine. Failure to satisfy a fine in a timely manor can result in the assessment of additional late fees, penalties or interest that are added to the principal amount of the fine.

The Administration and some members of Council hope that the latest amnesty program will provide an incentive for violators to pay their obligation and accelerate the cash payments received by the City.

The program will apply to assessed late fees, penalties and interest for unpaid parking tickets accumulated through June 30, 2008. The amnesty period would be in effect from October 1, 2008 through December 1, 2008.

All assessed late fees, penalties and interest for unregistered businesses shall be forgiven provided that for any fee, penalty or interest forgiven, the City receives payment in full on the assessed original obligation during the amnesty period.
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International Economic Development Council to Host Annual Conference in Atlanta

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) will hold its annual economic conference October 19-22, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency in Atlanta, Georgia. This premier annual conference for the economic development industry stresses the need for communities of all types to adjust their economic models and leadership to meet the challenges posed by the growing world population. This year theme is The Next Billion: Mobility, Flexibility, Agility, and Livability.

The conference is expected to draw influential business leaders, economic professionals and academics to address current trends and issues in the economic development industry. Scheduled events include engaging seminars, networking opportunities and educational tours. Feature keynote speakers include:
The Honorable Shirley Franklin, Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia
Anna Cablik, President ANATEK, INC.
Dr. Richard Florida, International best-selling author, Who’s Your City?
John Rice, Vice Chairman, General Electric Company
Thomas D. Bell, Jr., Chairman and CEO of Cousins Properties, Inc.

Roel Spee, Associate Partner, IBM Global Business Services, and Global Leader, PLI-Global Location Strategies, will be holding a press conference following his Defining Issues Luncheon on Tuesday, October 21st from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. to answer any media questions.

Participants at the Annual conference will explore the conference theme through the seminars offered in four primary tracks:

· Globility/Mobility: Learn ways a community can integrate into the global economy.
· Flexibility/Agility: Create and retain a talented workforce and entrepreneurial environment in communities of all sizes.
· Livability: How communities can invest in their economic assets to attract and retain citizens and businesses.
· Sustainability: Examine how communities of various sizes can and are building sustainable futures

Atlanta, Georgia has an economic development story to tell. With growing rural, suburban and urban communities, Georgia sets the scene for the conference theme, The Next Billion: Mobility, Flexibility, Agility, Livability. An international urban center, Atlanta provides leading case studies as a city adjusting to meet the needs of a growing population, building green, sustainable and inspiring entrepreneurs. From the Hartsfields-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to vibrant downtown Atlanta and on tours such as Technology Square at Georgia Institute of Technology, conference attendees will learn valuable lessons to take back to their community.

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the largest non-profit membership organization dedicated to helping economic developers do their job more effectively and raising the profile of the profession. When we succeed, our members create more high-quality jobs, develop more vibrant communities, and generally improve the quality of life in their regions. For more information about IEDC visit www.iedconline.org.
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American Fiber Systems Connects Hooters of America New POS System to Remote Locations

Leading Atlanta Ethernet provider, American Fiber Systems (AFS), has been chosen by Hooters of America to provide network connectivity between their Atlanta-based headquarters and 422 remote locations, including corporate sites and restaurants across the nation. This network upgrade to AFS’s Ethernet over fiber service supports Hooters’s recently upgraded web-based Point of Sales system, and allows for a near real-time corporate reporting program and faster response time for their customers.

The Hooters headquarters location now connects to the AFS fiber network footprint that surrounds the greater Metro-Atlanta region, providing a unique bandwidth connection to 544 on-net buildings in the Metro-Atlanta market. AFS’s Atlanta network was purposefully built to provide companies like Hooters a reliable and easy way to easily upgrade network capacity, up to 10 Gigabit, as they outgrow their current bandwidth.

“Like us, the Hooters corporation is made up of straight shooters who tell it like it is—there’s no pretense,” says Mike D’Angelo, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, American Fiber Systems. “We’re thrilled to have earned their trust with such time sensitive data. And if it means we’ll get our beer and wings a little faster, then everyone wins.”

“In the past getting a fiber connection was thought to be only obtainable for large shops—and now it was an option for us as well,” stated Wes Marco, Director of IS for Hooters of America, Inc. “After we completed the implementation, I hardly think about it anymore. It is just there and it works, which allows me to focus my time on more important responsibilities.”

American Fiber Systems provides metropolitan networking infrastructure and transport services to carriers and large enterprises in select markets nationwide. For more information, visit http://www.americanfibersystems.com/.

Hooters of America operates over 440 restaurants in 42 states and 27 countries.
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Clayton State Senior Melissa Bolton Selected for Denver Conference by CSCMP Atlanta Roundtable

Clayton State University senior Melissa Bolton (Atlanta), a Management major in the University’s School of Business, has been selected to participate in the Council of Supply Chain Management Professional (CSCMP) annual conference in Denver.

Bolton, who has a minor in Supply Chain Management, was selected by CSCMP’s Atlanta Roundtable from a pool of students representing Auburn, Georgia Southern, Georgia Tech, Clark Atlanta, Georgia State and University of Georgia to attend the Oct. 4 to Oct. 8 conference.

“Melissa put in an application plus supporting documents like her resume as required to the selection committee of the local Atlanta Roundtable of CSCMP,” explains . John Mascaritolo, Clayton State director of Logistics Practices and assistant professor of Supply Chain Management. “The selection process of the committee was a comparison of GPA, rĂ©sumĂ©, and the application.”

CSCMP is the preeminent global organization for supply chain professionals. The conference will have about 3,500 attendees and Bolton will be joining other selected students representing 97 roundtables from the United States, as well as from other countries like Japan, China, Abu Dhabi, The Netherlands, United Kingdom, Taiwan, Germany, and Spain, to name a few, says Mascaritolo.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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Five New Take Care Clinics Open at Walgreens in Atlanta Area

BUSINESS WIRE --Take Care Health Systems has opened five additional Take Care Clinics at Walgreens drugstores, as the company launched the second stage of a multi-phase expansion plan in the greater Atlanta area. Take Care Health Systems is one of the largest managers of convenient care clinics and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Walgreens (NYSE, NASDAQ: WAG). A total of 21 Take Care Clinics, walk-in, professional health care centers, are open in the region seven days a week with extended evening and weekend hours.

“Take Care Health has treated more than 675,000 patients nationwide since November 2005. Residents throughout the Atlanta area are some of those patients that have embraced this high-quality health care service,” said Lillian Williams, Lead Nurse Practitioner for the Atlanta market. “As a result, we’ve added five new clinics to the 16 clinics we opened last year, giving Atlanta-area residents greater access to convenient and affordable health care.”

Take Care Clinics in the Atlanta market are staffed by board-certified family nurse practitioners who treat patients 18 months and older for common illnesses such as strep throat, ear and sinus infections, pink eye and poison ivy, and are licensed to write prescriptions that can be filled at the patient’s pharmacy of choice. Take Care Nurse Practitioners also provide school, sports and camp physicals and offer vaccinations for chickenpox, flu, hepatitis B, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), meningitis, pneumonia, tetanus and human pappilomavirus (HPV).

Clinics have two patient examination rooms, exam tables, sinks, innovative patient registration kiosks and electronic medical record technology for visit documentation. Clinics are open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. New Take Care Clinics open today are located at the following Walgreens drugstores:

* Atlanta - 3740 Cascade Road

* Fayetteville - 780 North Glynn

* Atlanta - 595 Piedmont Ave., Ste 100

* Loganville - 4398 Atlanta Hwy.

* Atlanta - 3800 Princeton Lake Parkway SW

Take Care Clinics are also open at the following Walgreens drugstores:

* Acworth - 1762 Mars Hill Road NW

* Lithonia - 2945 Panola Road

* Alpharetta - 3003 Old Alabama Road

* Marietta - 2988 Shallowford Road

* Atlanta - 7530 Roswell Road

* Marietta - 2464 Roswell Road

* Austell - 4120 Austell Road

* Norcross - 5985 Peachtree Pkwy.

* Douglasville - 9465 Hwy. 5

* Powder Springs - 5230 Dallas Hwy.

* Kennesaw - 2779 N Cobb Pkwy.

* Smyrna - 2670 Cobb Pkwy. SE

* Lawrenceville - 181 S. Clayton Street

* Stockbridge - 1855 Hudson Bridge Road

* Lawrenceville - 2990 Five Forks Trickum Road

* Stone Mountain - 5320 Memorial Drive

Take Care Health Systems has partnered with numerous insurers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia, ChoiceCare, CIGNA, Coventry, GreatWest, Humana, Multiplan/PHCS, UnitedHealthcare and traditional Medicare. If insured by one of these plans, patients pay their regular co-pay or coinsurance amount. For the uninsured or cash payers, prices average $59-$74 and are listed on clinic sign-in kiosks.

“Our experienced Take Care Nurse Practitioners understand their local communities and truly care about a patient’s long term well-being,” said Williams. “These clinics are an important part of the solution to the current health care crisis, and we are excited to bring Atlanta area residents more clinics promoting greater access to care.”

Take Care Nurse Practitioners encourage all patients to have a health care home, a provider they see routinely for on-going medical needs and routine exams. If a patient’s condition falls outside of the scope of service at the clinic, the patient is referred back to his/her primary care provider for follow-on care. If a patient does not have a primary care provider, nurse practitioners will offer a list of providers in the area accepting new patients. Take Care Nurse Practitioners collaborate with local physicians who are available for consultation at all times the nurse practitioner is treating a patient. Collaborating physicians and other local providers work with Take Care Nurse Practitioners to accept patient referrals.

Take Care Health Systems uses nationally recognized, evidence-based clinical guidelines for treatment and electronic medical record technology allowing patients to take visit records to other providers, promoting continuity of care. Take Care Nurse Practitioners follow quality and safety standards as outlined by the Convenient Care Association, the industry’s trade association.

Take Care Health Systems is part of Walgreens Health and Wellness division which includes Take Care Consumer Solutions, managers of convenient care clinics located at select Walgreens drugstores nationwide, and Take Care Employer Solutions, managers of worksite-based health and wellness services. Including Take Care Clinics, the Walgreens Health and Wellness division manages 591 worksite health and wellness centers and retail health clinics.

Take Care Health Systems currently manages 229 clinics in 29 markets and 15 states, including locations in: Atlanta, Boulder-Longmont, Colo., Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Ohio, Denver, Green Bay, Wis., Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Louisville, Madison, Wis., Miami, Milwaukee, Nashville, Tenn., Orlando, Fla., Oshkosh, Wis., Peoria, Ill., Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Rockford, Ill., St. Louis, Tampa, Fla., Topeka, Kan., Tucson, Ariz., West Palm Beach, Fla. and Wichita, Kan.

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Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Lockheed Martin Inducts First C-5A Into Avionics Modernization Program

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) C-5 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) reached another milestone this week with the induction of the first U.S. Air Force C-5A into the program.

"The combination of hardware and software afforded through AMP allows Air Force crews to fly unrestricted anywhere in the world," said George Shultz, Lockheed Martin's vice president of C-5 Modernization. "Modernizing the C-5As today with new avionics further ensures this unique national asset will continue to support the warfighter for many years to come."

The AMP replaces the analog cockpit instruments and systems in the C-5 with digital displays and equipment. It also provides the necessary communications and navigational avionics to comply with Global Air Traffic Management (GATM) requirements, the new set of international standards for aircraft movement and reduced separation in flight.

There are 111 C-5s to be modified through AMP with 42 production airplanes completed to date. The AMP installations are taking place at Dover AFB and Travis AFB and are scheduled to be completed in second quarter 2014. The C-5 AMP fleet has flown more than 9,400 sorties and 40,000 operational flight hours.

The Air Force had the C-5As re-winged in the 1980s, increasing their structural service life to the equivalency of its C-5Bs. The C-5 has been the backbone of strategic airlift in every military engagement since it entered service and has supported U.S. humanitarian relief efforts around the globe. It is the only aircraft capable of carrying 100 percent of certified air-transportable cargo, with a dedicated passenger compartment enabling commanders to have troops and their equipment arrive in an area of operation simultaneously.

Lockheed Martin is a pioneer in sustainment initiatives, offering a number of flexible and individually tailored support solutions. The company is a major supplier of logistics systems and services to military and civil government customers, and provides solutions for platform maintenance, modifications and repair, material readiness and distribution, and global supply chain command and control.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.

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Network Communications Inc. Names Marcia Bollinger President of Apartment Finder

(BUSINESS WIRE)--On the heels of accelerated growth of one of its anchor brands, Network Communications Inc. (NCI) today announced the promotion of Marcia Bollinger to the new position of president of Apartment Finder, the leading source of critical information for apartment seekers in the multi-family industry. Bollinger has served as Apartment Finder’s senior vice president since 2003, when she joined the company.

A world-class leader in the industry, Bollinger is admired by coworkers and customers alike. Indeed, Bollinger has been the driving force bringing in a top-notch management team and sales force, as well as propelling Apartment Finder from a publication primarily focused in the southeast and secondary U.S. markets to a key national player serving 114 markets. She’s been instrumental in expanding the brand into a fully integrated media business, which now encompasses ApartmentFinder.com, transforming Apartment Finder into the fastest-growing media platform in the apartment industry.

"Marcia’s talent, dedication and energy are commendable, and, because of her leadership, Apartment Finder has been experiencing explosive growth. Marcia has proven she is the right person and posseses the vision to lead the charge to continue driving the brand forward,” said Dan McCarthy, chairman and CEO of NCI. "Marcia’s constant positive, productive leadership and ideas for Apartment Finder, along with the strong team that she’s assembled, will help build on its success. I look forward to working with her to continue to build our business, customer by customer, market by market, through a constant process of innovation and delivering exceptional value.”

In the past five years, Apartment Finder has expanded its presence in print and online. It is the preferred choice for consumers, as well as a key resource that thousands of advertisers rely on for the most qualified leads in the industry. In addition to Apartment Finder, Apartment Magazine and Apartment Blue Book publications, NCI operates ApartmentFinder.com, the #1 consumer-preferred website with state-of-the-art searching and mapping features for apartment renters. It is this type of expansion that continues to make Apartment Finder the anchor of the multi-family division of NCI, the nation’s largest publisher of local real estate magazines and website.

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GMSDC Makes History with Appointment of First Asian-American as Chairman of the Board

BUSINESS WIRE --The Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc. (GMSDC) announces the election of Dr. Rengen Li, Supplier Diversity Manager at The Coca-Cola Company, as Board Chairman.

A native of China, Dr. Li worked for many years in supplier diversity for The Coca Cola Company. He helped increase the diversity spending threshold at The Coca-Cola Company by more than 450 percent. Rengen will support GMSDC’s Board, leadership and staff in carrying out its mission and strategic plan in compliance with the goals of its constituents and other key stakeholders.

“As the face of ‘Diversity’ evolves in the supplier diversity marketplace, GMSDC remains committed -- more than ever -- to our core of building competency and capacity for ethnic minority business enterprises in the mix,” said GMSDC President & CEO Stacey J. Key. “We anticipate Rengen’s expertise, experience and leadership will support us in mobilizing against our mission and maintain our leadership position in minority business development,” said Key.

Rengen has served held a variety of leadership positions with the Council including most recently as First Vice Chair; Committee Chairman for several committees including Long Range Planning; and Corporate Supplier Diversity Coordinators’ Forum. Li’s two-year term was effective on September 1. Ruby Patton of Cox Communications and GMSDC’s outgoing Interim Chair will serve as First Vice Chairperson on the Board.

“I am honored to hold this position during such an exciting time for minority business development,” said Li. “With hot trends such as globalization presenting challenges as well as enhanced opportunities for both corporate supply management and minority businesses, I’m committed to helping the organization deliver world-class services that help them compete in today’s changing business landscape and maximize all the benefits of supplier diversity partnerships,” Li added.

A testament to his great works in supplier diversity, Rengen has been recognized with multiple honors from organizations across the globe including the Top 50 Asian Americans in Business by Asian American Business Development Center of New York and 100 Men Impacting Supplier Diversity by Minority Business News.

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Tuesday, September 16, 2008

“Today’s Economy and FDIC Insurance” Seminar at Clayton State University

Heritage Bank, in partnership with Clayton State University, will be presenting a seminar with information on today’s economy and protecting your deposits with FDIC Insurance. There is a tremendous amount of news and interest in the state of today’s financial industry. There is concern for the stability of our banks and their customer’s deposits.

Heritage Bank has arranged for Dr. Nikki Finlay and Dr. Reza Kheirandish, professors of Economics from Clayton State, to present their views on the status of today’s economy. Penny King and Thomas Stokes, experts in the Atlanta FDIC office, will present valuable information on the importance of FDIC insurance. Time will be provided to answer questions. The seminar is free of charge and will be conducted in three locations in Clayton, Henry and Fayette Counties. The first scheduled seminar is Monday, Sept. 29 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Clayton State University, in the new School of Business, room T152. Parking will be in the gated James M. Baker University Center parking lot. Please RSVP to Barbara Stevens @ Heritage Bank (770) 515-7001.

Heritage Bank is a member of FDIC, The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Heritage Bank, a state chartered commercial bank, has been serving metro Atlanta’s Southern Crescent since 1955. The independent community bank has seven full service offices, features a well-rounded offering of commercial and consumer products, and is an active, involved member of the community it serves. The company’s stock is traded on The Nasdaq Small Cap Market under the symbol “CCFH.” For more information, please call (770) 478-8881 or visit the Heritage Bank website at www.heritagebank.com.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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SBA Seeks Nominations for 2009 Georgia Small Business Person of the Year & Champion Awards

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is seeking nominations for the 2009 Georgia Small Business Person of the Year as well as its Small Business Champion awards.

Since 1963, the President of the United States has designated a National Small Business Week. The highlight of Small Business Week activities is the presentation of awards at the state and national levels. In 2009, National Small Business Week will honor the estimated 26.8 million small businesses in America. Small businesses represent 50 percent of the non-farm Gross Domestic Product (GDP). They also create 60-80 percent of new jobs in the country. National Small Business Week is scheduled for the week of May 17, 2009.

“We encourage organizations or individuals to take part in our statewide program by nominating an outstanding small business owner or small business Champion for one of the awards,” said SBA Georgia District Director Terri Denison.

In Georgia, the SBA district office selects the 2009 Georgia Small Business Person of the Year. That individual will attend the national celebration in Washington, DC to compete for the National Small Business Person of the Year award. At this celebration, a national winner is selected from all the winners from the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Any person who owns and operates a small business may be nominated. Partners who jointly own and operate a small business may be nominated as a “team” so long as the number of partners does not exceed four.

Small Business Champions of the Year award categories are for those who promote small business, including volunteering time and services to small business interests and groups. Champions may or may not be small business owners. Award categories include:

Minority Small Business Champion
Veteran Small Business Champion
Financial Services Champion
Home-Based Business Champion
Women in Business Champion
Small Business Journalist of the Year
Small Business Exporter of the Year
Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned Small Business of the Year
SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year

Nomination packages must be received at the Georgia District Office on or before November 17, 2008. To find nomination guidelines for all awards, go to the SBA Georgia website: www.sba.gov/ga. Look under “Spotlight.”
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Doubletree Hotels Launches New Incentive Program for Meeting Planners

Doubletree® Hotels today announced the launch of its Meetings by Doubletree package at more than 190 participating hotels throughout North America. Customers who book a block of more than 25 guestrooms on their peak event night will receive an all-inclusive package of meeting incentives and premiums designed to simplify and make meetings and events easy.

Ideal for either business or social functions, the Meetings by Doubletree package includes the following:
~ Complimentary meeting room with minimum 26-room block on peak nights
~ Complimentary high-speed Internet connection in designated meeting room with minimum 26-room block
~ A dedicated Event Services Manager at each hotel
~ Flexible food and beverage options
~ Access to exclusive online event planning tools such as Guest List Manager and

Personalized Group Web Pages

“Even with the challenges of today’s business climate, organizations and groups are looking for clever, efficient ways to conduct those important executive meetings, conferences and training sessions. The need to meet, plan and train face-to-face is still just as important as ever. The new Meetings by Doubletree program simply offers our customers added incentive to check into our brand’s three million square feet of superior event and meeting space and fine accommodations in some of the most sought-after business and leisure destinations around the world,” said Mike Williams, vice president, brand performance and sales for Doubletree Hotels.

More Meeting Choices and Locations than Ever Before

Doubletree hotels are ideal for small to medium-sized groups of between 10 and 150 people, with an average of between 5,000 and 15,000 square feet of meeting and event space at every hotel. More than 30 of the brand’s hotels are part of a Doubletree Convention Collection that feature IACC-approved conference centers as well as convention facilities that offer between 30,000 and 60,000 square feet of meeting space for large gatherings of up to 1,000 people. Many Doubletree hotels also offer the unique opportunity to create refreshing outdoor events in such year-round, sun-drenched destinations as the Florida coast and the California wine countries to suburban city locations and even outdoor courtyards 17 stories above the Manhattan skyline. Doubletree continues to be one of the fastest-growing brands in the full-service hotel segment today, with more than 25 new hotel and resort locations expected to open throughout 2008.

Doubletree Completes Massive Upgrade and Renovation Resolution

With the successful completion of more than $1.5 billion in system-wide renovations during the past few years by hotel owners, Doubletree continues to gain interest with the traveling public with substantial increases in market share and customer satisfaction. Residential-style amenities include the brand’s signature Sweet Dreams® by Doubletree sleep experience; MP3-compatible, stereo clock radios; Wolfgang Puck® gourmet in-room coffee service; Neutrogena® bath and body products; complimentary, wireless high-speed internet access in all public areas, restaurants and lounges and virtual, online printing services from every guest room. These features, along with a delicious Doubletree Breakfast buffet and fitness facilities created in conjunction with Precor®, round out a wide range of services that create a comfortable, productive and refreshing hotel experience for business or pleasure.

Online Event Tools Put Planners In The Power Seat

As a part of the Hilton Family of Hotels, Doubletree offers a suite of online tools that puts control at a meeting planner’s fingertips 24/7. Through a unique suite of online tools available through the Meetings by Doubletree package, event leads can manage their attendees’ reservations and room block through a Guest List Manager and even communicate event-specific information and agendas to their respective group through a Personalized Group Web Page. These online features provide the necessary communications utilities for a meeting that’s well-run, productive and a great reflection on the event planner.

A Wide Selection of Food and Beverage and Audio-Visual Options Are Available

Just as important, every Doubletree hotel offers a wide range of food and beverage options for half-day, full-day and evening receptions and banquets. The Event Services Manager at each Doubletree hotel is there to guide customers every step of the way through a comprehensive menu of healthy, as well as indulgent culinary choices to make the most of their meeting experience. Event Services Managers can also help event planners choose from the latest in audio-visual and lighting equipment and décor options to create anything from the most simple and classic to the most dramatic and elegant occasions.

Double Hilton HHonors Event Planner Bonus Points Promotion

Meeting planners who are members of the Hilton HHonors Guest Loyalty Program have even more incentive to take advantage of the new Meetings by Doubletree package. For every meeting booked and held between now and December 31, 2008, HHonors members who book a Meetings by Doubletree package may qualify to earn Double Hilton HHonors Event Planner Bonus Points.

Customers who book a minimum room block of twenty-six rooms on peak nights receive complimentary meeting-room rental. Size of complimentary meeting room relative to the total room block and determined by the hotel. This offer is available only at participating hotels. Hilton HHonors® Event Planner bonus is valid for new event bookings only and is awarded at the discretion of the hotel and may not be awarded on all group business events. For complete Event Planner Terms and Conditions, visit HiltonHHonors.com. Other restrictions may apply.

For more information on Meetings by Doubletree, including a list of participating hotels and their incredible array of meeting facilities, packages and options, please visit our Groups and Meetings website at www.doubletree.com/doubletreemeetings.
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HUGHES Telematics Expands Global Presence to Japan

PRNewswire/ -- HUGHES Telematics today announced the opening of their newest office in Tokyo, Japan. A presence in Japan allows HUGHES Telematics, as one of the industry-leading telematics suppliers, to be immediately accessible to Japanese automobile manufacturers in support of their telematics planning and execution activities.

"Japanese manufacturers represent a significant part of the global automotive industry," said Erik Goldman, President of HUGHES Telematics. "Our leadership role in the telematics industry requires us to be fully accessible as these OEMs consider their needs and discuss how best to deliver telematics services to their customers. Our Tokyo office demonstrates our commitment to the success of our potential OEM customers in Japan."

The Tokyo office is an important step in HUGHES Telematics' commitment to global expansion with automotive partners. The local presence ensures greater accessibility of Japanese OEMs to a telematics service provider, and strengthens HUGHES Telematics' role as a telematics service provider with a solution scalable to the global marketplace.

"As a part of next generation telematics architecture, our solution is purposefully engineered to function internationally and within a specific market area to integrate with local content service providers and call centers," added Goldman.

The Tokyo office is being led by senior advisor Takayoshi Maezawa. In this role, Maezawa will serve as the relationship manager with OEMs.

In addition to the new office in Tokyo, HUGHES Telematics operates offices in Atlanta, GA, Detroit, MI, Germantown, MD and San Diego, CA.

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Triarc and Wendy’s Shareholders Approve Merger

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Triarc Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRY; TRY.B), the parent company of Arbys Restaurant Group, Inc. which is the franchisor of the Arbys® restaurant system, and Wendy's International, Inc. (NYSE: WEN), announced today that their respective shareholders have approved all proposals related to the pending merger.

Upon consummation of the merger, the combined company will be called Wendys/Arbys Group, Inc. and will trade under the symbol WEN on the New York Stock Exchange. Triarc and Wendys® expect that the merger will be consummated on or about September 29, 2008.

Under the merger agreement, Wendys shareholders will receive 4.25 shares of Triarcs Class A common stock for each share of Wendys common stock that they own. In addition, each outstanding share of Triarc Class B common stock, Series 1, will be converted into one share of Triarc Class A common stock, resulting in a post-merger company with a single class of common stock.

Roland Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Triarc, said: We are very pleased that the shareholders of both Triarc and Wendys have approved the merger, and we look forward to working together with employees of both companies in setting a new course for Wendys/Arbys Group. We believe our combination represents a major strategic opportunity to create significant long-term value for all of our stakeholders, and we are working on a comprehensive integration plan and organizational structure to support enhanced operating performance at both brands. We intend to share more detailed plans regarding the new company as soon as practicable after the transaction closes.

Kerrii Anderson, CEO and President of Wendys, said: We are committed to a seamless transition as the merger closes, working closely with the Triarc team. Wendys has a strong foundation with outstanding employees and franchisees to help drive growth for the new company.

Wendys/Arbys Group will have a consolidated support center based in Atlanta, Georgia, which will oversee all public company responsibilities and shared service functions. The headquarters of the Wendys brand will remain in Dublin, Ohio and the headquarters of the Arbys brand will remain in Atlanta, Georgia.

Triarc stockholders also approved the re-election of all 11 current members of Triarcs Board of Directors. Following the stockholder meeting, the Triarc Board of Directors acted to: increase the size of the board to 12; accepted the resignation of one Triarc director, Russell V. Umphenour, Jr.; and appointed two current Wendys directors, Janet Hill and J. Randolph Lewis, to fill the resulting two open positions on the Board of Directors, all to be effective upon, and subject to, the closing of the merger. Ms. Hill is Vice President of Alexander & Associates, Inc., Washington, D.C., which provides corporate planning, advice and analysis to directors, executives and managers in the areas of human resource planning, corporate responsibility, communications and government consultation. Ms. Hill also serves as a director of Dean Foods Company and Sprint Nextel Corporation. Mr. Lewis is Senior Vice President of Distribution and Logistics for Walgreen Co.

Regarding the pending board changes, Mr. Smith said: We are delighted to welcome Janet Hill and Randy Lewis to our organization and look forward to working with them as we execute our post-merger business strategies. I would also like to thank Russ Umphenour for his board service. Russ has been a great contributor to the Triarc board and we all wish him well in the future.

The merger remains subject to other customary closing conditions. There can be no assurance that the merger will be consummated or that the anticipated benefits of the merger will be realized.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain statements that are not historical facts, including, importantly, information concerning possible or assumed future results of operations of Triarc Companies, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively Triarc or the Company), and those statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words may, believes, plans, expects, anticipates, or the negation thereof, or similar expressions, that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the Reform Act). All statements that address Triarcs operating performance, the pending merger transaction between Triarc and Wendys International, Inc. (Wendys) or the combined company; expectations with respect to the future financial or business performance; strategies or expectations; synergies, efficiencies, overhead savings, costs, charges and capitalization and anticipated financial impacts of the merger transaction and related transactions; the satisfaction of the closing conditions to the merger transaction and related transactions; the timing of the completion of the merger transaction and related transactions; and other events or developments that are expected or anticipated to occur in the future, including statements relating to revenue growth, earnings per share growth, new restaurant openings or statements expressing general optimism about future operating results, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Reform Act. The forward-looking statements are based on our expectations at the time such statements are made, speak only as of the dates they are made and are susceptible to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors. Our actual results, performance and achievements may differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. For all of our forward-looking statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Reform Act. Many important factors could affect our future results and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. Such factors, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately, and many of which are beyond our control, include, but are not limited to, (1) changes in the quick service restaurant industry; (2) prevailing economic, market and business conditions affecting Triarc and Wendys, including competition from other food service providers; (3) conditions beyond Triarcs or Wendys control such as weather, natural disasters, disease outbreaks, epidemics or pandemics impacting Triarcs and/or Wendys customers or food supplies or acts of war or terrorism; (4) changes in the interest rate environment; (5) changes in debt, equity and securities markets; (6) changes in the costs of commodities and/or labor; (7) the availability of suitable locations and terms for the sites designated for development; (8) cost and availability of capital; (9) adoption of new, or changes in, accounting policies and practices; and (10) other factors discussed from time to time in Triarcs and Wendys news releases, public statements and/or filings with the SEC, including those identified in the Risk Factors sections of Triarcs and Wendys Annual and Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q. Other factors include the possibility that the merger does not close, including due to the failure to satisfy one or more of the remaining closing conditions.

All future written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this press release. New risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict these events or how they may affect us. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date of this press release as a result of new information, future events or developments, except as required by federal securities laws. In addition, it is our policy generally not to make any specific projections as to future earnings, and we do not endorse any projections regarding future performance that may be made by third parties.

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Myrtle Beach’s Broadway Station Condominiums to Sell at Real Estate Auction

(BUSINESS WIRE) --J.P. King Auction Company, the nation’s leading real estate auction marketing firm specializing in high-value properties, is managing the inventory close-out sale for 40 premier condominiums selling absolute at auction on Saturday, September 27, 11 a.m. at The Sheraton Myrtle Beach.

Broadway Station is just a half mile from the beautiful white sands of Myrtle Beach and near Broadway on the Beach, home of the shopping and entertainment district of Myrtle Beach. Broadway is near more than 100 golf courses and minutes from Coastal Carolina University and Webster University.

“The event is the perfect opportunity to purchase a coastal residence in one of the most desirable locations on Myrtle Beach,” said Craig King, president & CEO of J.P. King. “Whether you stroll the lush landscaped grounds, relax by the pool or enjoy a picnic by the lake, Broadway Station provides the ideal lifestyle.”

Broadway Station offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom floor plans with open and spacious layouts and 87 premier condominiums from which to choose. Most units come with balconies providing excellent views of the community’s lakes and pool. Residents at Broadway Station can enjoy a top caliber clubhouse perfect for entertaining, fitness facility, pool, Jacuzzi and poolside grills. The community offers an abundance of pet-friendly green space throughout the grounds. A limited number of garages and storage units also will be available at special day auction pricing.

“Broadway Station’s proximity to the beach and the main attractions of Myrtle Beach make it a draw for prospective buyers,” said Andrew Gardner, vice president of Condominium Operations of Lane Investment and Development Services, LLC. “The facility’s amenities truly set it apart from other developments in the area.”

Individuals seeking additional information about the auction may contact J.P. King at 800-558-5464 or visit the firm’s web site at www.jpking.com.

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Friday, September 12, 2008

Choate Construction Selects McRae As Public Relations Agency of Record

Choate Construction Company, an industry leader in general and interior contracting, has selected McRae as its public relations agency of record. McRae will handle all media relations and public relations for Choate’s offices in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.

“We have great respect for Choate Construction and are thrilled at the opportunity to work with them,” said Joe Snowden, President of McRae. “We had the opportunity of being a Choate client when they built out our new offices at the top of the Equitable building in downtown Atlanta last year, and had an absolutely fantastic experience. Now, we look forward to providing great public relations to them.”

Choate Construction Company is one of the largest commercial building general contractors in the southeastern United States. Founded in 1989, Choate provides preconstruction, construction, program management and design/build services with the singular focus of delivering the highest quality finished product, on time and within budget. The company’s areas of specialty include: healthcare and biomedical; office buildings; technology; warehouse and distribution centers; industrial and manufacturing centers; governmental buildings and student housing; senior living; automotive dealerships and professional auto racing teams; and water treatment. For more information, please visit www.choateco.com www.choateco.com.

McRae (www.mcrae.com) is one of the southeast’s largest integrated marketing agencies and one of the only firms in the region to provide comprehensive advertising, public relations and interactive services on an in-house basis. McRae is a member of the Worldcom Public Relations Group, the world’s largest network of independent public relations firms, the American Association of Advertising Agencies, and the Technology Association of Georgia.
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William H. Mathieu Joins Stites & Harbison in Atlanta

William H. Mathieu has joined Stites & Harbison as a member of the Atlanta office. He will serve clients in the Real Estate & Banking Service Group.

Mathieu, 49, brings more than 22 years experience to the firm. His practice focus includes all aspects of real estate development and ownership, including purchase agreements, joint ventures, equity and debt financing, tax-deferred exchanges, various ownership structures and entities, leasing, rezoning, environmental issues, construction issues, covenants and long range planning. Mathieu’s clients include developers, property managers, and secured and unsecured lenders. He has closed numerous loan originations, as well as loan workouts and restructurings. Mathieu also represents entrepreneurs and business owners.

Prior to joining Stites & Harbison, Mathieu was a partner at Powell Goldstein in Atlanta for over two years. Before that, he was a member at Fine and Block, in Atlanta, for nine years.

Mathieu received his J.D. degree from Vanderbilt University Law School in 1984. He is a member of the International Conference of Shopping Centers as well as the International Association of Attorneys and Executives in Corporate Real Estate. He is admitted to practice in Georgia and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia.
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Larry Callahan, President & CEO of Pattillo Featured Speaker at Chamber’s Early Bird Forum

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce will feature Larry Callahan, President & CEO, Pattillo, at its upcoming Prosperity Happens Here Series Early Bird Forum on Tuesday, September 23 at 7:00 a.m. at the Central Educational Center. Pattillo is the largest private industrial developer in the Southeastern United States and developer of the 755-acre Coweta Industrial Park. Pattillo also received one of the Chamber’s Prosperity Awards earlier in the year. The Bank of Coweta is the Forum sponsor. Admittance to the Forum is $15 for Chamber members and $20 for nonmembers and includes breakfast. There is a networking time from 7 – 7:45am and the program is from 7:45-9am.

The Early Bird Forum is a monthly Chamber event that provides networking opportunities and eye-opening information from business leaders throughout Coweta County. To RSVP, contact the Chamber at 770-253-2270 or info@newnancowetachamber.org. The deadline to make a reservation is Friday, September 18 5pm.
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AmericFirst Direct Opens Office in Peachtree City

Amerifirst Direct, a financial services organization based out of Charlotte, North Carolina, announced today the opening of its newest office in Peachtree City, Georgia. This office is one of five located in the metro Atlanta area. Amerifirst Direct is a financial services organization that focuses on the growing needs of retired individuals and those planning for retirement.

“We are proud to be serving Atlanta’s southern metropolitan area from our Peachtree City office,” said Candice Beaty, senior financial advisor for Amerifirst Direct. “We are committed to providing the very best products and services for our clients and look forward to do so as an extension of Peachtree City’s distinguished business community.”

Amerifirst Direct has 54 offices located throughout the southeast and Midwest. It specializes in the placement of FDIC insured CD’s, fixed annuities and other guaranteed deposit accounts including IRA’s and rollovers.
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Former General Dynamics IT President Joins CommsFirst’s Board

BUSINESS WIRE --CommsFirst, Inc. announced today that Michael Chandler, former president of General Dynamics Information Technology has joined their board of directors.

“Mike’s extremely relevant experience will help address the next phase of CommsFirst’s growth and we look forward to his contributions as a member of our board of directors,” said Alan Silverman, CommsFirst President and CEO.

“Our business model is very focused on delivering critical communications, power, and applications to help clients deal with serious situations and we think Mike’s background, knowledge, and insights will be very valuable for guiding us in the years ahead.”

“CommsFirst’s managed services for deploying experts to provide tactical communications and early-hour situational assessments, as recently demonstrated by their response in the aftermath of Hurricane Gustav, will enhance disaster recovery for agencies, communities, and enterprises across the country,” said Michael Chandler.

“I'm really looking forward to working with the executive team and CommsFirst’s board to help scale their unique business model and innovative service offerings.”

Prior to joining CommsFirst, Mike was president of General Dynamics Information Technology, a diverse organization of 16,000 professionals providing systems integration, information technology, systems engineering and professional services to customers in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, federal civil and commercial sectors.

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